RSPCA Education - Lessons and Activity Library - Education
Assess film and media
Explore how animals are portrayed in the media and society and consider how their welfare could be improved.
Last edited: 24/09/2024
Before you get started
Why this is important
We know that young people and educators use social media as a valuable educational resource. While it's a powerful tool, the way animals are portrayed in media can sometimes have harmful effects—both on the animals themselves and on how young people understand our relationship with them.
Supporting documents
Duke of Edinburgh Worksheet [3 hours]
Instructions
Assessing how animals are portrayed
Choosing your media
Animals are portrayed in many different ways around the world. Get creative and explore a variety of scenarios!
Here are a few suggestions to get you started:
- Social media
- Books and magazines
- Billboards and posters
- Advertisements (e.g. TV or YouTube)
Points to look out for
Discuss how the animal is being portrayed.
- Does the animal have a choice in participating?
- Does the animal appear healthy and happy?
Use our worksheet to explore more questions and dive deeper into these considerations.
Effects on people and animals
Reflect on what people are seeing and think about the impact on animals:
- Could this become a harmful trend?
- How do you think the animal feels in this situation?
We’d love to hear your thoughts—share your views with us!
celebrate your achievement
Get a practical animal welfare certificate!
Just finished the activity? Upload your evidence and earn your very own Animal Advocacy Certificate!